The Hon Stephen Smith mp

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Mr Stern Hu

The Australian Government has continued its efforts to secure consular access to Mr Stern Hu, an Australian citizen detained by Chinese authorities on suspicion of espionage and stealing state secrets.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade called in the acting Chinese Ambassador today, 9 July, to reiterate the importance the Government attaches to both the welfare of Mr Hu and to securing consular access to him.

In accordance with Australia's consular agreement with China, Chinese authorities have advised late this afternoon that a consular visit will occur tomorrow, 10 July.

Australian officials remain in close communication with Mr Hu's wife and are providing her with every assistance.

The Government is staying in close contact with Mr Hu's employer, Rio Tinto.